Linda Mwananchi Demands Release of MCA After Alleged Arrest

The Linda Mwananchi Movement has condemned the alleged arrest of Trans Nzoia County Assembly Deputy Speaker and Matisi Ward MCA Obed Mwale. 

In a statement on Tuesday, November 3, Linda Mwananchi Head of Communication Pauline Njoroge claimed that Mwale was picked up by armed police officers in Kitale on Monday. 

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Njoroge noted that the Matisi MCA was taken to Kapenguria Police Station in West Pokot County. 

“We strongly condemn the arrest of Trans Nzoia County Assembly Deputy Speaker, Matisi Ward MCA and Linda Mwananchi Senate aspirant for Trans Nzoia County, Hon. Obed Mwale, who was picked up by armed police officers in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County, yesterday and later produced at Kapenguria Police Station in West Pokot County,” read the statement in part. 

According to Njoroge, the Trans Nzoia Deputy Speaker is accused of financing criminal activities and organizing goons.

However, Linda Mwananchi refuted the allegations, describing them as politically motivated and intended to intimidate and silence the MCA.

“We reject these allegations as politically motivated and intended to intimidate and silence Obed, a very popular candidate who is challenging UDA's Allan Chesang,” said Njoroge. 

She linked the alleged arrest of the Matisi MCA to what she termed a growing pattern of harassment and intimidation targeting Linda Mwananchi leaders in Trans Nzoia County

Further, Njoroge demanded the immediate release of Mwale following the alleged arrest. 

“We demand justice and Obed's immediate release. We condemn the use of arbitrary arrests and intimidation against our leaders and supporters,” added Njoroge. 

This comes a week after the Linda Mwananchi Movement condemned the alleged abduction of Tanzanian activist Twaha Mwaipaya in Kenya.

In a statement on Monday, October 26, Njoroge claimed that Mwaipaya was abducted on Sunday, October 25, in Kamulu, Machakos County. 

She mentioned that the Tanzanian national was seized by unknown individuals while travelling in a taxi. 

“The Linda Mwananchi Movement strongly condemns the abduction of Tanzanian opposition activist Twaha Mwaipaya yesterday in Kamulu, Machakos County. 

“According to Amnesty International, he was seized while travelling in a taxi by individuals using three vehicles,” the statement read in part. 

The Linda Mwananchi movement demanded that Kenyan authorities disclose Mwaipaya’s whereabouts, guarantee his safety and protect him from any forced removal from the country.

“We demand that the Kenyan authorities disclose his whereabouts, ensure his safety and protect him from any forced removal from Kenya,” Njoroge stated. 

The movement also called for an independent investigation into Mwaipaya’s alleged abduction and accountability for anyone found responsible, regardless of their position or nationality.